Prostitution Sting in Ocala

A prostitution sting in Ocala caught more than a dozen men and also nabbed another pair for other crimes, just for good measure.

A total of 14 people were booked in to the Marion County Jail as a result of the prostitution sting.Most of them are charged with solicitation of prostitution, but others face different charges.

"As we see these types of problems, we run these kinds of operations," said Sgt. Angy Scroble with the Ocala Police Department.

On Tuesday night, officers with the Ocala Police Department and deputies with the Marion County Sheriff's Office picked an area on West Silver Springs Boulevard, to reel in people who were looking for prostitutes.

"It is something we do periodically on an ongoing bases to try an conquer this type of crime that's going on in our community," said Sgt. Scroble.

Sgt. Scroble said during this particular operation, an undercover officer or deputy posed as a prostitute.Throughout the night, investigators say these 12 men approached the undercover officer.After having a conversation , they all agreed to giving up something in exchange for sex.

"They will offer various trades whether it's sometimes different types of drugs in exchange for sexual favors, or it can be a money deal as well," said Sgt. Scroble.

In this case, some men offered marijuana, while others were willing to pay $20 to $30 for sex.The ages of the men range from 20 years old up to 60.Sgt. Scroble said each time they do a prostitution sting, the location is different, but the goal stays the same.

"People view this as a victimless crime and it's not. It affects society. It affects the health and well being of our community and as both agencies feel it's important to definitely keep a handle on this along with other crimes in our community," said Sgt. Scroble.

During the sting another man was arrested with trying to blow the officer's cover.Yet another man was also arrested for selling drugs in front of an undercover deputy.